Wedding Day Attendees Arrival, Parking & Seating

Ceremony

Sangria & Comedy Hour

Reception

The Family Block Party

A Love Story Written by FaithIt all started with a chance meeting at the gym on March 7, 2022. Neither Charlie nor Sakinah knew that the other was on a journey of self-improvement, looking for love, and asking God to send them a lifelong partner. A year later, on March 6, 2023, they went on their first date—without even realizing the significance of the timing. The very next day, March 7th, they went to lunch, jokingly calling it their “anniversary.” What began as a playful lunch turned into a celebration for Mrs. LeStage with a birthday meal with the both of them and Mr. and Mrs. LeStage followed by Zach’s birthday dinner with family. Needless to say, love was blossoming fast! Over the course of the year, they experienced laughter, growth, loss, milestones, celebrations, prayers, and tears—building something real and lasting. When Charlie felt ready to start dating, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Caldwell, encouraged him to ask God for exactly what he wanted for himself and his son, making his desires plain. On the other side, Sakinah’s family reminded her to be specific about the qualities she sought in a partner. And God answered both prayers with precision, bringing them together at the perfect moment, prepared and ready to embrace each other. The moment everything became official? On May 22, 2024, Charlie surprised Sakinah with a romantic trip to Cuba, the homeland of her mother’s family. In a breathtaking private spot overlooking the ocean, Charlie got down on one knee and proposed, capturing the magic with photographer Bryan Gonzales. Their love story is built on faith, prayer, and patience. Charlie and Sakinah have found not only love but deep friendship through their obedience to God’s guidance. Both families are overjoyed to unite in Christ, knowing this is only the beginning of a beautiful journey as two hearts come together as one.

Ask God and Make It Plain: Our Wedding Journey

Our Wedding

Our Story

Photos

Melinda Martinez – Prima Extraordinaire! Sakinah and Melinda’s story began in 2015 with a FaceTime call, thanks to Sakinah’s cousin Nigel, who had just started dating Melinda. At the time, Sakinah was leaving LA for good, while Melinda was just arriving. From that very first introduction, their connection was instant and magnetic. They bonded over their love for speaking Spanish, sharing stories, secrets, laughs, and even some deep, heart-to-heart conversations.

It wasn’t long before Melinda earned the title of “Prima” (Spanish for cousin), and their relationship grew stronger from there. Over the years, Melinda has been a steady and supportive force in Sakinah’s life, from helping produce events, to life coaching many of Sakinah’s students and clients, and always being there, no matter the need.

With all these shared experiences and an unshakable bond, it’s no surprise that Melinda is Sakinah’s Maid of Honor!

Melinda Martinez

Naomi and Sakinah first met in 3rd grade, forming a bond that would mirror each other’s journeys into adulthood. Unbeknownst to them, their lives ran on parallel tracks, often living in the same cities at the same times and experiencing similar life changes. It wasn’t until 2011, when they reconnected in Los Angeles—far from their families—that they realized just how intertwined their paths had been. As their friendship deepened, they noticed a unique pattern: whenever one experienced a life change, the other wasn’t far behind. From young girls to single women and now married women, Naomi and Sakinah continue to share their parallel lives, stepping into a new chapter with their loving husbands by their sides.

Rhema Naomi Conway 

Sakinah and Fareedah met many years ago in a dance class, each pursuing their creative passions. Sakinah, a trained and experienced dancer, crossed paths with Fareedah, whose love for movement was undeniable despite her lack of formal training. Despite their differences, their friendship quickly blossomed into a lifelong bond. Together, they became "Hot Girls," lighting up stages as gogo dancers on tours across the country and even performing for Grammy Award-winning artist T-Pain. 

Their partnership evolved beyond the stage, creating opportunities to collaborate on projects, including artists Sakinah was developing or inviting Sakinah to work with Grammy Award-winning group Arrested Development, of which Fareedah is a member. Through these shared endeavors, their bond only grew stronger.

Over the years, Sakinah initially saw Fareedah as a work associate, but Fareedah consistently showed up as so much more—a gentle, loving presence who supported Sakinah through life's challenges and periods of growth. Eventually, Sakinah realized there was no bestie quite like Fareedah Aleem, affectionately known as FREE, "The Real Salt Shaker" (lol).

Fareedah Aleem

Vanessa Fraction Williams and Sakinah first met through one of Sakinah's closest friends, Bllacboi, and their connection was instant. For Sakinah’s 29th birthday, she asked Vanessa to host the celebration, sparking a bond that grew into regular moments of laughter, dancing, sharing, and supporting each other’s passions. Their friendship deepened when they realized they both lived in Los Angeles at the same time.

Daily, they met to climb or run Runyon Canyon, starting at the base by sharing their goals, challenges, and prayer requests. At the summit, they would release it all to God, declaring, “This will be handled by the time we’re back at the bottom.” Often, it was. And when God required patience, they waited together in faith. Vanessa would often say, “I want a husband, a house with a pool, and a dog. I’m ready.” Today, she has all three.

Ten years later, Sakinah celebrated her 39th birthday at Vanessa’s home—complete with her husband, pool, and dog. As a prayer warrior and unwavering supporter of Sakinah’s journey, Vanessa will stand by her side as she gains her husband. While Sakinah already has the dog, perhaps the prayer for a pool will be answered too—lol!

Vanessa Fraction

Tiffany Baskets, the gentle, God-loving angel who blessed Sakinah with her friendship around 2017, has always been a source of light, love, and joy. From the beginning, Sakinah and Tiffany found they could talk for hours, sharing honest conversations and encouraging one another through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Though their bond formed later in life, it quickly became clear that their connection was special—filled with God’s presence and a reminder of the importance of friendship among women.

Their relationship goes beyond daily conversations, effortlessly picking up where they left off, even during busy times. Sakinah chose Tiffany because she is a true reflection of God’s love and light, a friendship that has become both cool and necessary in adulthood.

Tiffany Baskets

As the only two girls among a generation of boys, Melissa and Sakinah were inseparable growing up. Surrounded by their male cousins, they learned the values of loyalty, strength, and above all, the unshakable bond of family.

Though connected by family, their friendship has always been a choice—a beautiful reflection of their genuine love and deep respect for one another. Melissa has consistently shown up for Sakinah, whether cheering her on at performances or lifting her spirits with words of encouragement. Her unwavering support has made her not just a cousin, but a true sister and friend.

When it came to creating lifelong memories on one of the most meaningful days of her life, Sakinah knew without a doubt—Melissa had to be by her side as she says “I do.”

Melissa Jones

Zachary Evan Jackson: To know Charlie is to know his son, Zach. At just 16 years old, Zach is not only extraordinarily talented and intelligent but also the heart of Charlie’s world.  There could be no other choice for Best Man than Zach, who represents Charlie’s greatest legacy. On this special day, Zachary Evan Jackson stands proudly beside his father, now not just as his son, but also one who celebrates this new chapter where Charlie adds "husband" to his title of "Dad."

Zachary Jackson

Jay Jay Jr., Charlie’s older brother and lifelong best friend, has been a constant guiding presence in his life. From the very beginning, Jay’s calm and genuine nature made him someone Charlie could always look up to and rely on. Whether offering wisdom, support, or simply being there when needed, Jay has played an integral role in shaping Charlie into the man he is today. Their bond is more than just sibling loyalty—it’s a friendship built on trust, encouragement, and a shared history of moments that have strengthened their connection over the years. As Jay stands by his side today as a groomsman, Charlie knows he’s reaffirming the unwavering support of his big brother, who will always have his back.

Harold "Jay" Jackson Jr.

Daniel Clements—have you ever heard him sing? His voice, smooth and angelic, paired with a smile that lights up the room, has a way of captivating everyone around him. It’s no surprise that his charm is matched by his kindness, making him someone people naturally gravitate toward. The youngest of the group, Daniel has always brought a special energy to every moment, effortlessly blending humor, warmth, and a sense of belonging.

As the baby brother, Daniel was often the one Charlie could tease and playfully guide, including the memorable request for him to “say yes sir,” to which Daniel obliged with his signature grin. But beneath his lighthearted demeanor lies a man of great character and strength. Over the years, Daniel has grown into his roles as Captain, sailor, soldier, and protector, embodying a sense of duty and loyalty that defines him.

Today, Daniel stands proudly as a groomsman, representing the bond of brotherhood and unwavering support  for Charlie. As he takes his place alongside him on this special day, Daniel remains the same steadfast and charismatic person, ready to support Charlie in this next chapter of his life.

Daniel Clements Jackson

Shannon McKenzie—when Charlie first met him, he couldn’t help but remark, “Man, you look just like Jay!” At the time, the resemblance was uncanny, before Shannon’s beard grew in and Jay embraced his bald head. But beyond the physical similarities, Shannon quickly proved himself to be one of the most thoughtful and reliable people Charlie would ever meet. 

Known for his attentive ear, Shannon is the kind of person who truly listens—taking in every word, every nuance, and offering advice that comes from a place of genuine care and understanding. While Charlie jokes that Shannon can sometimes be a bit long-winded, he knows those words are always grounded in wisdom and reason. Shannon has a gift for being the voice of encouragement and clarity, especially during life’s tougher moments.

Today, Shannon stands proudly as a groomsman, embodying not just the role of a supporter but also a steady source of strength and guidance. His presence reflects the deep bond he shares with Charlie—a friendship built on trust, respect, and countless conversations that have helped shape Charlie’s path. As an encourager, a listener, and a true friend, Shannon takes his place among those standing beside Charlie on this unforgettable day, ready to cheer him on into this exciting new chapter.

Shannon Mckenzie

Kyle Evans—when Charlie first met him, he immediately said, “You’re Nate’s twin!” As the oldest brother, Kyle has always reminded everyone of his role, but it comes with a kind word and a sincere smile that reflects his genuine care. Known for his wisdom and steady presence, Kyle has always been a source of guidance and support. Today, he stands proudly as a groomsman, offering his love and encouragement as the eldest, reaffirming the strength of their family bond.

Kyle Evans (Honorary Groomsman)

From roaming the dorm halls of Georgia State to cruising the highways between Atlanta and Warner Robins, Charlie and Justin have shared a brotherhood that spans years and miles. They've navigated it all—wild parties, whirlwind romances, growing families, dinner tables full of stories, and careers that have taken them in different directions, yet never apart. 

Though total opposites in description, Justin's heart has always been a perfect reflection of Charlie’s. The kind of man who’s never met a stranger, Justin brings warmth, loyalty, and unwavering support wherever he goes. No matter where life has led him, one thing has remained constant—he’s always had Charlie’s back.

That’s why, on this unforgettable day, Charlie asked him to stand at the altar with him by his side in support.

Justin Ritchie

We call him "Bill"—the very first grandson of the Sadler family and a certified gentle giant. If you’re in need of a good laugh, pull up a chair next to him. If you’re nostalgic for the golden days of the '80s and '90s, Bill’s got stories for days. And if you enjoy a perfectly timed meme, just make sure he’s got your number—your group chats will never be the same.

Though technically a first cousin, Bill has always felt more like a big brother to Charlie. From childhood fishing trips with Bill’s father (Charlie’s Uncle Andy) to now taking their own sons out on the water, their bond has only grown stronger—proof that some traditions really do stand the test of time. As they say, “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” Bill took that to heart.

A true walking proverb, Bill always has a word of wisdom ready—whether you asked for it or not! Charlie couldn’t be happier to have him by his side on this special day.

Sakinah & Charlie

Sakinah & Charlie

Our Story